Firefighters, Police Seek Arbitration

TITUSVILLE — For the first time in nine years, negotiators for police and firefighters say they will ask federal arbitrators to hold hearings on wage disputes they cannot resolve with city officials.

Although the opinions of the arbitrators aren't binding, union officials said they hope the documents would influence the city council -- the next appeal route -- and inform the public regarding salary problems.

Police and firefighters this week voted to reject final offers from city officials for 5 percent pay increases. The Police Benevolent Association, which represents 67 sworn officers, has asked for raises of 10 percent. The 51 firefighters -- covered by the International Association of Firefighters' contract -- have asked for an increase of 14 percent.

Union negotiators said salaries won't be competitive without the increases. City officials said they've made as many concessions as they can afford, and that a 5 percent pay increase is all the budget will allow.

''They don't have any choice but to accept,'' said city personnel director Sheila Hutcheson.

A police union spokesman Chuck Mays said police want an opinion from an outside observer ''mainly to educate the public. Hopefully, the city council will see it in a different light than they have in the past.''

Beginning salary for police is $14,600; firefighters earn a starting salary of $13,046 a year. This is the first time firefighters have asked for an arbitrator. Police sought arbitration hearings in 1976.